The drive to promote language learning in the UK gathered strength in March 2004 with the collaboration between the London European Forum of the Greater London Authority, CILT (the National Centre for Languages) and the Regional Language Network (RLN) London.

London's mayor, Ken Livingstone, enthusiastically approved the partnership, commenting, "London is one of the world's most cosmopolitan cities, and we trade with and visit our partners in Europe with astonishing frequency. But despite our outward looking attitude, too few Londoners speak a second language."

The initiative is one of many designed to highlight the benefits of learning a language and to enthuse people to do so. At present, learning a language is something done at school and typically forgotten in the workplace. Many UK businesses now realise the importance of having staff with language skills, yet surprisingly fail to invest in language learning.

London, as the UK capital, is the centre of politics, commerce, trade, industry and culture. In all sectors, language skills are crucial in developing the potential success of London on the international stage by promoting effective communication with international partners.

The RLN London promotes language learning for the benefit of London's businesses and employees. It stresses that an improvement in language learning will help strengthen links with Europe for business and trade. Having a population with strong language skills also raises the profile of London within the EU and encourages investment in the city and use of the city as a host for international events.

Jane Collins, of RLN London, highlighted that, "Membership of the EU and our significant trade, tourism and investment with European Partners underline the value of good international communication skills. For London's future in Europe, and as a global capital, we need to heighten awareness of languages."

In our rapidly globalizing and shrinking world, people with different languages are now meeting all the time - commercially, culturally, and also on the level of personal exchange.  It is therefore critical that language learning become a priority if the UK is to succeed in the global marketplace.